How to Install a New Computer Keyboard

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Replacing a computer keyboard is normally a fairly easy task. Because many keyboards have software installed in Windows, the old keyboard should be uninstalled before removing it and attaching a new keyboard. Once this is done, the new keyboard will be in place and available for use.

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Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Click on "Start" in the lower left-hand corner of the desktop screen, then click on "Control Panel" in the menu.
Step 2

Select the "Performance and Maintenance" link and then the "System" link.
Step 3

Choose the "Hardware" tab found at the top of the System Properties form and click on the "Device Manager" button.
Step 4

Expand the Keyboards list by selecting the "+" and then perform a right mouse click on the keyboard name that is shown.
Step 5

Perform a left mouse click on "Uninstall." Select "OK" in the dialog box that will appear.
Step 6

Pick "No" on the next dialog box that will have the message that the system must be restarted in order to complete the uninstalling of the keyboard.
Step 7

Shut down the system by clicking on "Start," then "Shut Down." Unplug the old keyboard. Plug in the new keyboard and restart the system.

Tips & Warnings

Keyboards come in two different types of connections: PS/2 and USB. Ensure that the new keyboard has the proper connection or that an adapter comes with it.
If changing from PS/2 to USB keyboard, check the BIOS setting before replacing the keyboard. The BIOS setting can be accessed when the computer is booting by pressing the appropriate key for the system. Once in the BIOS setup menu, look for settings for USB devices.

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